Bradford City are delighted to announce that loanees Jack Payne and Lewis O’Brien will remain at the Northern Commercials Stadium until at least the end of the season.
This comes after City officials thrashed out a revised contract with Premier League parent club Huddersfield Town to retain Payne, while O’Brien will now see out the remainder of his Bantams agreement.
Attacking-midfielder Payne was reunited with Terriers youngster O’Brien around six weeks after he himself made the move across West Yorkshire.
The on-loan duo have made more than 60 City appearances between them since the season started.
Payne, 24, said: “I am happy to be staying with the club for the remainder of the season.
“We have really picked up in recent weeks and I am enjoying being a part of it.
“The supporters have played a massive part in my decision to stay at City.
“A lot of people have messaged me asking me to stay and it has certainly had an impact.
“The supporters have shown me a lot of love and made me feel wanted.
“I am really enjoying my football and we are playing a style of football, pressing high and pushing forward, which suits me.
“We just want to kick on now and keep getting the important results we need to move up the league table.”
Midfield colleague O’Brien, 20, added: “I am really pleased to be continuing with the club, as I believe we are heading in the right direction.
“Coming to Bradford has been fantastic for me. I have gained a lot of game-time and feel I have developed a fair bit.
“David (Hopkin) has had a massive influence. He took a chance on me when I first arrived at the club - and I haven’t looked back.
“The support I have had from everyone at the club has been fantastic and I am committed to helping us stay in the division.”
City manager David Hopkin has spoken of his delight after securing the duo’s services for a further five months.
He said: “I am delighted Jack and Lewis have committed to the club, as this has been a major focus for us.
“A lot of our efforts during the early stages of the transfer window have been spent on ensuring these two players stay with us.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Huddersfield Town for their cooperation on this.
“Jack and Lewis will be able to further enhance their careers, while helping us continue with our efforts to remain in League One.
“Hopefully our supporters will be pleased with this news as we continue to build the squad towards the end of the season.”
City return to action on Saturday, playing host to Southend United in Sky Bet League One.
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